For those who may not be familiar with the X-Lock-3 from Cumbria Designs, this
is an device to add frequency stabilization to the older radios that employ
VFO's or PTO's,
Previously there have been posts on the reflector for the older models
(X-Lock-1 and X-Lock-2). Cumbria Designs started shipping the X-Lock-3 early in
2012 which provides some upgrades over the earlier units.
After installing an X-Lock-2 in one of my TR-7's and seeing the excellent
results in frequency stabilization, I decided to purchase the X-Lock-3 and
install that device in my other TR-7. The results with both units were again
amazing!
When I said amazing results -- I set the TR-7 on a frequency at 7:00 PM one
evening and went back the next morning at 7:00 AM and it was on the same
frequency. The "Drake Drift" has been cured!
The footprint of the X-Lock-2 PCB miraculously aligned with two screws on the
underside of the TR-7 Motherboard and that install simply involved finding
longer 4-40 screws and the addition of two 6-32 nuts to act as spacers.
However the X-Lock-3 PC Board was redesigned and is larger. Therefore the
install is a bit different to utilize the two screw holes on the motherboard.
For those who may be contemplating the
addition of an X-Lock-3 to the TR-7 there is documentation provided on my
website and may be of some use or perhaps spur other mounting methodologies.
You can see the documentation for my install here:
http://www.jessystems.com/Installing%20the%20X-Lock-3%20in%20the%20TR-7.pdf
YMMV. My principal concern was frequency stability and I did not make rigorous
calculations of the introduction of any phase noise or other arcane issues that
may be perceived or imagined with the addition of a frequency stabilizing
device. All I can state is that once set on frequency it does not move. I have
not noticed any masking of signals due to any phase noise and the signal
reports attest to the TR-7's being very solid on frequency and having an
excellent quality.
Such new technology devices certainly provide a means of "modernizing" our
beloved Drake equipment.
73's
Pete N6QW
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